(Beacon, NY) - Poppy's Burgers & Fries, a family-owned, locally-sourced mainstay in Downtown Beacon, will re-launch this spring after undergoing a dramatic renovation, the eatery announced today. The expansion, made possible by an investment from Hudson River Ventures, will transform the establishment from a counter-service storefront shop to a fully staffed restaurant and bar.

Owned and operated by Beacon natives Paul and Jennifer Yeaple, Poppy's is known for serving 100% grass-fed beef supplied by Kiernan Farm in Ulster County, along with other organic produce from farms across the Hudson Valley. The restaurant will continue use locally sourced ingredients, while expanding its offerings to include a rotating menu of sandwiches, market salads and soups. Upon completion, the new space will also include a bar with local craft beers on tap and New York wines.

Owners Paul and Jennifer Yeaple

"We have always been big believers in living and buying locally and we have built our business around those principles," said Paul "Poppy" Yeaple. "With this investment from Hudson River Ventures, we will be able to expand our dining capacity, double our staff and build the restaurant we have always dreamed of, while maintaining that community connection."

After spending several years in New York City, the Yeaples returned to Beacon to open Poppy's and start their family in 2009. The restaurant experienced a notable growth in customers after Paul was featured on - and eventually won - the Food Network's television competition, "Chopped." Today, patrons come from all over the Hudson Valley to sample the famed beef and vegetarian burgers. The restaurant has become a must-stop for day-trippers in Beacon.

"Poppy's is well-known for their delicious food and exceptional commitment to the community," said Sean Eldridge, Founder and President of Hudson River Ventures. "They are leaders in the farm-to-table trend that is growing the economy in the Hudson Valley, supporting farmers, and helping to attract new tourists and residents to the region. Through years of hard work, the Yeaple family has created a delicious product and a successful business, and we're proud to invest in their bright future."

"We started the Hudson Valley Food & Beverage Alliance in order to foster the growth of local and regional businesses, as well as forge new partnerships and encourage private investment. Today, Hudson River Ventures is helping us accomplish all three of these goals with their actions," stated HVEDC President & CEO Laurence Gottlieb.

When renovations are complete, Poppy's will likely double its current staff by hiring a new pastry chef, front-of-house manager and additional servers to accommodate its additional customer capacity. The restaurant is expected to re-open in late spring.

About Hudson River Ventures:

Hudson River Ventures, LLC is a small business investment fund focused on the Hudson Valley. Founded by Sean Eldridge in 2011, Hudson River Ventures works to empower entrepreneurs and build thriving businesses throughout the Hudson Valley. Hudson River Ventures is making strategic investments ranging from $50,000 to $500,000 in target industry sectors, including food & beverage, agriculture, tourism & hospitality, renewable energy and biotechnology.